The Defense Minister of Somalia, Abdulkadir Mohammed Nur, emphasized the significance of Turkiye’s unwavering support, describing it as essential to Somalia’s national security and development. Speaking during his visit to Azerbaijan for the 5th Azerbaijan International Defense Exhibition (ADEX 2024) in Baku, Nur highlighted the strong bond between Somalia and Turkiye, calling the Turkish people “brothers.”
Nur, reflecting on his time spent in Turkiye, commended the relationship between the two nations, particularly Turkiye’s role in aiding Somalia’s military reform and counterterrorism operations. He praised Turkiye for its consistent support since President Erdoğan’s visit in 2011, stating that the collaboration has grown to a strategic level.
Beyond Turkiye, Nur also explored new avenues of defense cooperation with Azerbaijan. He underscored the potential for military and defense collaboration, noting Azerbaijan’s recent success in the Second Karabakh War as a model for Somalia’s ongoing fight against terrorism, particularly against al-Shabaab. He expressed Somalia’s intent to deepen cooperation with Azerbaijan, not just in defense but also in areas like energy and trade.
Somalia’s recent election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council was another highlight of Nur’s statements, as he emphasized Somalia’s readiness to contribute to international security discussions and assist friendly nations like Azerbaijan.